Home Shopping With Technology

by Janie Schriewer 05/17/2020


 Photo by Bruce Mars via Pexels

House shopping when you live far from your new community is not easy, but technology makes it much simpler to tackle this big task. While nothing beats in-person visits, if you live across the country, or even in an international destination, you may not have that option. Here’s a look at how you can make a long-distance house shopping experience work.

Find the Right Agent

You’re going to need a tech-savvy agent who is willing to be in constant communication. The agent is going to need to use technology to help you see houses, be able to get documents back and forth successfully and know how to move quickly when you’re ready to make the purchase.

Start Online

Start your search online to narrow down what it is you do and don’t want. Different areas of the country have different types of homes, so you may find the basement you’re hoping for just isn’t standard for homes in your new community. Once you have narrowed down what you’re looking for, use the Internet to learn more about the communities.

Schedule Showings

Yes, you can have showings long-distance. Using real-time video tools like FaceTime or Skype, your agent can walk you through the home. This is why the agent you choose is so critical, because you’re going to need this type of partnership to find the right home. These real-time video tours will allow you to see the home's condition. The right agent will do a thorough search of the property and tell you about potential problems they may find.

Research Neighborhoods Carefully

One thing your agent won’t be able to do is give you specific details about neighborhoods, other than facts like its schools and commute times. Research neighborhoods carefully online to learn all you can about them, and find one that seems like a good fit for your needs. If you can, make a survey trip to your new community to narrow down the neighborhoods with the right vibe for you.

Never Skip the Inspection

When you’re buying a home long distance, you’ll need that inspection, even if it isn’t required. The inspection gives you details about the home that will be critical to your decision-making process.

Buying a home when you don’t live near the community is much easier today than it ever has been due to the increased amount of technology available to modern home buyers. Use this technology well, and soon you’ll find a home that’s a great fit.

About the Author
Author

Janie Schriewer

Welcome to the Janie Schriewer & Associates at RE/MAX Results. Janie just wrapped up her 30th year in the business & over that time has been adapting to the always-evolving Real Estate industry. In recent years she has added 2 members: Her Son Derek—Licensed Buyer & Technology Specialist, and Buyers' associate Melissa Kelley. We are all full-service REALTORS who can assist with selling your home and/or finding you your next home. The added professionals mean potential Clients have more convenience for showings & direct communication with Franklin County areas real estate Leaders. 

Communication is crucial in Real Estate & Janie leads by example for our team as she prides herself on availability to her clients. Whether you prefer texting, phone calls, emails, or instant messaging, Janie Schriewer & Associates can accommodate. Whenever you want to talk to us or work with a REALTOR, the Schriewer’s have the experience & care to offer the right advice for your situation. We know the intricacies of negotiating a deal from the original offer to the signatures at closing as well as alleviating all of the hurdles that may arise in between. We treat you just like family. We care about you and what is best for you. Call Us today. Thank you as always for friends, past clients and customers we love referrals. Talk to you soon.